Let’s face it, our smartphones have become an extension of our bodies, and we take them everywhere with us, including the toilet. But have you ever stopped to think about the germs and bacteria that are lurking on your phone screen?.

Why taking your phone to the toilet is a bad idea

First and foremost, taking your phone to the toilet is a bad idea for hygiene reasons. Toilets and their surroundings are a breeding ground for harmful pathogens such as E. Coli, Salmonella, and Norovirus.

When you use your phone in the toilet, you expose it to these pathogens, which can lead to illness and infection.

Furthermore, when you flush the toilet, you create an aerosol effect that spreads bacteria and germs throughout the air and onto surfaces. If your phone is nearby, it will catch some of these germs and become contaminated.

The dangers of germs on your phone

The germs and bacteria on your phone can pose a health risk to you and those around you. For example:.

Skin infections

If you have cuts or wounds on your hands, the germs on your phone can infect the open wounds, leading to skin infections.

Respiratory problems

If you breathe in germs from your phone, it can irritate your lungs and lead to respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Gastrointestinal illness

If you touch your phone after using the toilet and then touch your mouth or eat food, you can ingest harmful pathogens that cause gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.

How to keep your phone germ-free

So, how can you keep your phone germ-free? Here are some tips:.

Clean your phone regularly

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe your phone screen and case regularly. You can also use disinfectant wipes or a solution of water and rubbing alcohol (70%) to clean your phone. Be sure to turn off your phone before cleaning it.

Don’t take your phone to the toilet

The simplest way to avoid exposing your phone to germs is to leave it outside the bathroom when you go in.

Wash your hands after using the toilet

Washing your hands with soap and water after using the toilet is the best way to reduce the transfer of germs to your phone and other surfaces.

The Bottom Line

Taking your phone to the toilet is a bad idea for hygiene reasons. The germs and bacteria on your phone can pose a health risk to you and those around you.

So, the next time you need to use the toilet, leave your phone outside, and remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.